It can be devastating when you receive the notice that one of your loved ones suffers from Alzheimer’s; is not something that you can predict so easily, so you have to prepare mentally and emotionally to pay for Alzheimer’s care.
Up to this year, more than 6 million Americans are suffering from this type of disorder. It can be dangerous because of memory loss, so you have to take care of it immediately and support those who are in need.
Providing health care to people with this condition can be challenging, not only for the constant supervision of the individual but also the prices of the treatment and assistance. So if you want to know more about how you can pay for someone’s Alzheimer’s care, keep reading!
Steps to search and pay a good Alzheimer’s care
1. Determine the location and cost
First, you need to know that there are different places where you can take your relative for medical care. But the prices vary depending on the state and type of treatment, so you need to look for an adequate place that can provide the services you need and that you can afford.
One way to find the perfect residency and compare prices is with the Genworth Cost of Care Survey. This is a website that lets you find the cost in your area for long-term medical care. You just have to enter a city, state, or zip code and the cost by period.
As of 2020, the average national prices for Alzheimer’s care are:
- In-home care: $21 per day
- Assisted living residences: $4,500 per month
- Nursing homes: Either a semi-private room or a private room can go from $5,000 to $10,000 per month, but the latter costs more
- Adult day health care: 80$ daily
2. Confirm the status of your insurance plan
Before paying any amount of money, you should check if the insurance can cover the whole amount or even a part of it. If not, then you should start looking for other ways of payment.
Try talking to your insurance company about the benefits of your current plan. You can also tell them about your situation and hopefully, they could help you fund Alzheimer’s care.
3. Prepare all the needed documentation
You need to look for the appropriate papers for the registration of your loved one for Alzheimer’s care in the facility. Some of these are necessary:
- Insurance policies
- Medical powers of attorney
- Monthly bills
- Pension and other retirement benefits
- Social Security payment information
- Stock and bond certificates
- Wills (if any)
Other paperwork might be needed, so if you need any help with this try looking for legal assistance. We recommend you to go to the Eldercare locator website, as they focus on health care for the elderly, and can guide you through the documentation.
4. Pick your payment alternative for Alzheimer’s care
There are various ways you can pay for health care, for instance, your insurance is there to help you along the way. But other options can help you:
- You should always check if your relative is eligible for Medicare. It can cover up to 100 days, but after that, you have to start paying for nursing home care if it is for a long-term period.
- This program is specially made for low-income families. The benefits of it can help you with Alzheimer’s care; however, it depends on the state. It can cover nursing care, therapy, and even medical tests if needed.
- VA health assistance. If your relative is a veteran, there is a possibility to qualify as a VA to help you with health care. Contact your local VA benefits for more information about other requirements.
- Non-profits Assistance. If you are out of options, you could search for a non-profit organization that wants to fund the medical care of your relative. From paying for medical aids to fully afford a place in a facility, tell them about your situation and they can help you with Alzheimer’s care.